What's Being Discussed

The Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is holding a public hearing on Molokaʻi to take community input on a proposal by the Hawaiian Electric Companies to raise electricity rates. This is your opportunity to ask questions and share your opinion before any decision is made.

• The three Hawaiian Electric companies — HECO (Oʻahu), HELCO (Hawaiʻi Island), and MECO (Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi) — are requesting a combined $170 million annual revenue increase, about a 5.3% increase overall.
• The increase would happen in two phases: roughly $125 million starting January 1, 2027, and an additional $45 million starting January 1, 2028.
• If approved, a typical Molokaʻi residential customer could see their monthly electric bill rise by approximately $11 after both phases take effect.
• The companies say the increase is needed to account for inflation adjustments, depreciation of certain power equipment, and higher insurance costs.

Decisions Expected

No final decision will be made at this hearing. The PUC is collecting public testimony as part of its review process under Docket No. 2026-0162. A final ruling on whether to approve, modify, or deny the rate increase will come later.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Molokaʻi residents and businesses who pay electric bills through Maui Electric Company (MECO)
• Anyone concerned about rising utility costs
• Community members who want their voice heard before rates potentially change

Can't attend in person? A virtual hearing is planned for October 2, 2026 on Oʻahu that neighbor island residents may join remotely. Written comments can also be emailed to puc.comments@hawaii.gov, referencing Docket No. 2026-0162.